Business in the coffee shop and cafe industry is booming.

Figures released by the Office for National Statistics show there are now 75 restaurants not able to sell alcohol registered in Colchester, a significant increase from 2010 when there were just 35.

The 75 businesses include cafes, coffee shops, bistros and fast food eateries.

Data shows the opening of new coffee shops and fast-food restaurants across the borough has slowed since 2016, but still increased by 25 per cent.

The explosion in the number of cafes and coffee shops in Colchester has also been replicated across much of the UK.

Another study by the Centre for Economics and Business Research shows the growing number of unlicensed restaurants across the country has led to an increase in the amount of coffee being drunk by people each day.

The think tank says 95 million cups of coffee are bought and drunk each day in the UK. Ten years ago, that figure was 70 million.

So why has there been a significant increase in the amount of cafes and coffee shops?

Elain Jiggins, owner of Caffé Sala in Eld Lane, Colchester, said: “Like most things these days, the industry and culture has changed.

“Habits have changed in that people don’t just come to town to do their shopping anymore.

“They come in to shop and have some lunch as well or grab a drink. It’s quite sociable and is a way for people to relax.

“I also think attitudes are changing. People are making a more conscious effort to go to independent coffee shops rather than the big chains.

“That may be why they are so popular at the moment and why they are being set up.”

Mike Cherry, the Federation of Small Business’s national chairman, also believes the boom in coffee drinking has been a boost for independent cafes.

He said: “Crucially, it isn’t just chain stores who are seeing their fortunes rise, but independents are also thriving in this food and drink boom.

“Not only does this help small firms, but also gives shoppers a greater wealth of choice and

promotes good healthy competition.”

But the rising numbers of coffee shops in Colchester does mean competition is fierce in the town.

A report published by investment bank Citibank suggests the number of coffee shops cannot keep growing at the same high pace and forecasts the boom in the sector will not last beyond 2022.

But while an increase in cafes means an increase in competition, owners are taking a positive view of the situation.

One High Street bistro owner, who asked to remain anonymous said: “People say there are too many coffee

shops and restaurants in Colchester but there is a real demand for it.

“It’s a sustainable business and with all of the new houses being built there will be more people needing somewhere to eat and drink.” Ms Jiggins, of Caffe Sala, added: “Yes, there is more competition but it’s a good thing.

“It means we have to stay ahead of the game and keep thinking of new ideas for customers.

“You can either stand still worrying about it or keep finding ways to get better.”